Native & Early Settlement | Agriculture | The Railway | Industry | Tourism

Railway

Between 1856-1858 railways were built through Stratford, St. Marys and Mitchell in the south part of the county. All become associated with the Grand Trunk Railway, which become the Canadian National Railways in 1922. With two railways at once, Stratford soon becomes a railway hub. In 1871, the Grand Trunk Railway chose Stratford as it new locomotive repair shops location creating an economic boost to the town.

During the 1870s, railways were built through the north part of the county to Milverton, Listowel and Atwood. All became associated with the Grand Trunk Railway, later the Canadian National Railways. The Canadian Pacific Railways began to build in the County. In 1907 the line between Guelph and Goderich was completed cutting through Millbank, Milverton and Monkton, with a spur line to Listowel. However, the CPR’s campaign for a line through Stratford was defeated in a public referendum in 1913 by a majority who were intent on preserving the city’s parks.

By the 1950s, the CNR announced that it would be closing the shops in Stratford. The last part of the CNR locomotive repair shops at Stratford was closed in 1964. This year is symbolic of the change from the old economy of the city (railway and furniture) to the new economy (light automotive and theatre/tourism). Regular train service in the county ceased except on the main line through Stratford and St. Marys. Within twenty years most of the railways were closed to freight traffic as well and subsequently lines were removed.

Native & Early Settlement | Agriculture | The Railway | Industry | Tourism